Nine tobacco tax cases end in fines and seized products

Nine people were convicted of Tobacco Tax Act offences in court cases across Ontario during August 2026. The cases involved possession of unmarked cigarettes or untaxed tobacco, including possession for sale.

• Listed fines: $110,447 in total. A victim fine surcharge was also imposed for each offence; its amount was not stated.
• Products: All tobacco products were seized and forfeited.
• Since April 2020: Ontario reports 601 convictions, more than $6.2 million in fines, 42 jail terms, 100 probation terms and five community service terms.

The release says cigarettes without Ontario’s yellow stamp are illegal, subject to certain exceptions. Selling cigarettes in clear plastic bags and operating a tobacco business without required permits are also illegal.